The Indian Premier League 2025 welcomed a fresh face with a mysterious flair on Monday, as Digvesh Singh Rathi, a 23-year-old spinner from Delhi, left an indelible mark on his debut for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Axar Patel, a seasoned campaigner, became Rathi’s first IPL victim — beaten all ends up by a sharp turner that scattered the stumps. The moment defined not just a breakthrough but also the arrival of a new mystery spinner on the big stage.
Key Highlights:
From DPL Dust to IPL Spotlight
Rathi’s rise didn’t happen overnight. It was forged in the hyper-competitive Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2024, where he starred for South Delhi Superstarz, led by Ayush Badoni.
He claimed 14 wickets in 10 matches, finishing as the fifth-highest wicket-taker, earning plaudits for troubling top-tier batters — even Rishabh Pant. His control, variations, and bounce reminded many of Sunil Narine.
Auctioned for ₹30 Lakh, Worth Every Penny
In a mega IPL 2025 auction where franchises spent over ₹639 crore, Rathi was quietly picked up by LSG for just ₹30 lakh. A low-profile buy, he was far from the headlines — unlike big-money stars like Ashutosh Sharma, signed by Delhi Capitals for a whopping ₹27 crore.
But LSG’s scouts had noted Rathi’s calm under pressure, notably in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, where he recorded 2/11 against Manipur in a crunch game.
Turning Point in IPL 2025 Debut
In LSG’s clash with Delhi Capitals, the spotlight was expected to be on KL Rahul’s absence, a depleted pace attack, and DC’s auction blockbuster Rishabh Pant.
But in the 7th over, Rathi stole the narrative. His third IPL delivery saw Axar Patel undone — a classic mix of drift and turn. The mystery spinner was no longer a secret.
LSG’s New X-Factor?
With Prince Yadav, Ayush Badoni, and Rathi forming a young core, LSG’s future appears bright. Rathi’s debut adds tactical depth to their spin attack — particularly on turning tracks.
As the tournament progresses, Digvesh Singh Rathi may just become one of IPL 2025’s breakout stars.
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